Slough in Berkshire is a small city with a big reputation. You might recognise it as the setting of the iconic TV show, The Office. Also famous is their trading estate (the largest in Europe) and Mars’ chocolate factory. Aside from that, did you know that Slough is the most productive urban area in the UK? Whether you are a scaleup or a global enterprise, discover what Slough has to offer.
Economic Vibrancy
With a growing population of 158,500 (2021 ONS), Slough’s GVA per worker is a whopping £82,000, outpacing even London (£80,000) [1]. This makes the city the most productive in the UK.
Slough’s population is among the most ethnically diverse in the UK. This diversity has shaped Slough into a major trading centre. The city boasts the highest concentration of UK HQs of global companies outside London. With over 17,000 jobs in 400 businesses, Slough Trading Estate is the largest industrial estate in single private ownership in Europe, hosting companies such as Blackberry, Telefonica and Lego.
The backbone of Slough’s thriving economy comprises wholesale and retail, information and communication technology (ICT), professional, scientific and technical sectors. [2]
Strategic Infrastructure Investment
Slough’s prime location and excellent transport links, includes Crossrail, Heathrow Airport and London, which are both just 20 minutes away. This makes it a highly attractive spot for businesses. Over the last decade, house prices have grown by 66%, reflecting the area’s rising appeal.
In 2022, SEGRO developed the SEGRO V-Park Leigh Road at the trading estate. This provides additional industrial workspace for a range of businesses, including small enterprises and startups.
In 2024, Slough secured £9.3 million from the Levelling Up Fund 2 to make major improvements to the Farnham Road (A355) corridor. [3]
Education and Innovation
Although Slough does not have any universities, it benefits from close proximity to institutions such as the University of Reading and Cranbrook Business School. This regional advantage ensures a steady supply of skilled graduates.
Championing Sustainability
Slough Borough Council declared a climate emergency in July 2019 and set an ambitious carbon neutrality target by 2040, with a stretch goal of 2030.
Adaptation to climate change is also a priority for council services, residents, and businesses. There is a climate change strategy action plan in place.
Innovation Hub for Entrepreneurs
Slough’s economy is driven by world-class businesses and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. With a turnover of £9 billion and home to over 92,000 jobs across 5,400 businesses, Slough is a significant business hotspot. Ranked 4th for productivity by TechNation, the town’s robust economic environment supports both large corporations and startups. Slough is also recognised as one of the top UK cities for startups, supported by a young and talented workforce.
Support for Local Businesses
Berkshire Growth Hub provides business advice and supports the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Berkshire.
Slough Business Community Partnership (SBCP) promotes the use of business skills to support community organisations, creating beneficial relationships between businesses and the community.
Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce is a membership organisation which offers networking opportunities, business advice and international trade services.
Success Stories
Mars, Incorporated – Mars was founded in 1911 when Frank Mars started selling candy out of his kitchen in Tacoma, Washington. The UK factory opened in Slough in 1932, today, they still make Mars bars in the same factory. Mars began with the production of Mars bars and has grown into one of the world’s largest privately-owned food companies.
McAfee is a global leader in online protection with their UK headquarters in Slough. The company was founded in San Jose, California in 1987 as McAfee Associates, named after its founder John McAfee, who resigned from the company in 1994. The company was purchased by Intel in 2011.
Web Souls began in 2002. They offer domains, web hosting, website & mobile app development with SEO.
Why Choose Slough?
Slough is well connected with access to the M4, M40 and M25 motorways, Crossrail and Heathrow Airport, one of the busiest airports in Europe. With a highly productive and diverse workforce, it’s the perfect ecosystem for growth and success.
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